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The Olivier Awards 2014

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Review

by David Butcher

Recently the arts editor of a national newspaper fulminated in print about the fact that this year’s showpiece for theatre wasn’t going to be televised. Well, er, here it is, so he can relax. And the celebration of London’s theatrical highlights looks as if it will be as uplifting as ever. Gemma Arterton and Stephen Mangan are hosting, the latter’s winning turn in Jeeves & Wooster in Perfect Nonsense helping it towards a nomination for best new comedy.

Meanwhile, Myleene Klass presents coverage from a public stage where there will be performances from musicals including Wicked and Les Misérables. And for Abba fans, the great Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus appear with the cast of musical Mamma Mia! to celebrate its 15 years in the West End.

Summary

Highlights of today's star-studded ceremony honouring the best in British theatre, which was presented by Gemma Arterton and Stephen Mangan at the Royal Opera House in Covent Garden. The nominees include Judi Dench, Jude Law and Tom Hiddleston, and there's a rare appearance by Benny Andersson and Bjorn Ulvaeus from Abba, who join the cast of Mamma Mia! for a special 15th-anniversary celebration of the hit stage show. Plus, performances by the nominated casts of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, The Book of Mormon and Once, and an appearance by Broadway star Bernadette Peters.